Case Consultation
(423) 888-3030
The laws that cover boating accidents are complex, making it difficult for you to pursue compensation on your own. If you suffered injuries on the water, it is best that you work with a Hamilton County boat accident lawyer to successfully navigate the legal landscape. An experienced attorney could help you collect the required evidence, fill out the necessary paperwork, and file a lawsuit if the accident was caused by the negligence of another person.
Spending time on the water can be fun for most individuals. However, there is always the risk of an accident that could lead to serious injuries or significant property damage. Our local attorneys commonly handle boating accident cases involving the following causes.
An operator might be considered negligent if they operate the boat at dangerous speeds, drive in restricted areas, or act in any other way that is likely to cause an accident. Failure to provide safety equipment for the passengers is also an act of negligence.
Objects submerged underwater are not visible to boat operators, particularly when the waters are murky. If a boat hits a submerged object, it could result in an accident.
Weather conditions such as strong winds and storms increase the risk of boating accidents. Inclement weather might make the water unnavigable, and continued boating could lead to an accident.
Two vessels could also collide, resulting in serious injuries and damage to the boats. If operators are boating under the influence, they are more likely to cause dangerous collisions due to impaired judgement and reaction times. Under TN Code § 69-9-217 (2019), Tennessee law prohibits boating under the influence.
Boating operators are required by law to take certain actions after a collision. This includes reporting to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) immediately after the accident. Those injured in boating accidents are also advised to consult a Hamilton County attorney after seeking the appropriate medical care.
Regardless of the cause of the accident, victims deserve compensation for injuries or damages suffered. However, these types of accident claims can be difficult to make since boating is covered by both federal and state laws. Individuals who choose to pursue claims on their own could face challenges in pursuing compensation.
A Hamilton County boating accident attorney could help collect evidence of the operator’s negligence. A lawyer could also help the victim with documenting damages and filing the compensation claim, especially if the accident caused severe injuries. An experienced attorney could also appear in Hamilton County court on behalf of the boat accident victim.
Additionally, most operators and insurance companies will try to reduce their liability after an accident. The at-fault operator or their insurance company might approach the victim for an out-of-court settlement. However, before agreeing to settle, victims should consider consulting a Hamilton County boat accident lawyer for guidance.
Boat collision claims often include the following types of damages:
A skilled attorney who handles boat accident claims in Hamilton County could help a victim calculate the extent of their damages and pursue an appropriate amount of compensation.
At Yates & Wheland, our legal team is experienced in handling waterborne collision cases and helping injured victims get the restitution they deserve. If you suffered a serious collision, a Hamilton County boat accident lawyer could explain the relevant laws and pursue a claim on your behalf. Call today to schedule a consultation about your situation.